NBPTS Exceptional Needs Specialist Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Prep Resource

The stage of Erikson's theory that centers on adolescents seeking their identity is Identity vs. Role Confusion. This stage occurs during adolescence, typically from around ages 12 to 18, and is crucial for developing a sense of self and personal identity. During this period, individuals explore different roles, beliefs, and values to understand who they are and where they fit within society. Successful navigation of this stage results in a strong sense of identity and direction for the future, while failure to establish a clear identity may lead to confusion about one’s role in life and difficulties in social relationships.

In contrast, the other stages mentioned focus on different aspects of development. For example, Industry vs. Inferiority occurs in childhood (around ages 6 to 12) and pertains to children developing a sense of competence through achievements in school and social interactions. Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt happens in early childhood (around 1 to 3 years) and involves developing a sense of personal control and independence. Trust vs. Mistrust, the first stage, occurs during infancy (from birth to 18 months) and lays the groundwork for future relationships based on the core issues of trust and security. Understanding these distinctions highlights why Identity vs. Role Confusion